Smart Women Talk Radio

What if everything you’ve built—your ideas, your leadership, your voice—didn’t just disappear once the moment passed?In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with Kristin Thomas, founder of Marble Collective, an innovative AI-powered platform designed to preserve, connect, and amplify the work of women leaders.After two decades in luxury real estate, Kristin saw firsthand how even the most accomplished women struggle to stay visible in a world that demands constant self-promotion. Her solution? A centralized platform that captures the full body of a woman’s work—podcasts, interviews, articles, and more—making it easy to discover, follow, and learn from inspiring leaders across industries.Together, they explore:Why women’s leadership is often overlooked or lost over timeThe hidden cost of constant self-promotionHow mentorship can be scaled to reach thousands—not just a select fewThe role of AI in reshaping visibility, influence, and accessWhy connection—not competition—is the key to ad

What if the experience and connections you’ve built over a lifetime are actually the key to unlocking your next opportunity?In a world where job boards feel like a black hole and AI is changing the rules overnight, it’s easy to wonder where you fit—and how to move forward with confidence.In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana sits down with Katie Fortunato, co-founder of Higher Innovations, to cut through the noise and reveal what’s really driving opportunity today—and how you can use it to your advantage.You’ll discover:Why most jobs are never posted—and how to access the hidden marketHow your network can open doors faster than any résumé ever willThe real role of mentorship—and how to step into it at any stageWhat AI actually means for your career (and how to stay relevant)Simple ways to turn your experience into meaningful work and incomeThis isn’t about starting over. It’s about building forward—with everything you already have.Tune in now and start seeing your next chapter in a whole new way.Katie F

Is it Time to Eat More Plants? with Vicki Brett-GachWith so many conflicting diet trends—from keto to carnivore to plant-based—it’s no wonder people feel overwhelmed about what to eat.In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with certified vegan lifestyle coach, culinary instructor, and author Vicki Brett-Gach to cut through the noise and explore a simple question: Should we be eating more plants? Vicki shares her personal journey from a traditional American diet to a plant-based lifestyle, inspired by her family’s health history and a desire to improve long-term wellness.Together, they dive into:The real impact of food on chronic disease and inflammationWhy dairy (especially cheese) can be surprisingly addictiveThe role of gut health and the microbiome in overall wellnessWhat “whole food plant-based” actually meansThe most nutrient-dense foods you should be eating (hint: greens and beans)How to transition your diet—without overwhelmPractical tips for eating healthy at home, while tra

What does it really take to have healthy bones for life?In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with physical therapist, integrative health coach, happiness trainer, and author Margie Bissinger, MS, PT, CHC to talk about bone health, osteoporosis, osteopenia, and the lifestyle choices that can make a real difference.Margie explains the difference between osteopenia and osteoporosis, what bone density scores really mean, and why bone health is about much more than a diagnosis or a number on a test. She also shares practical guidance on nutrition, calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin K2, protein, stress, and the types of exercise that can help support strong bones over time.Katana also opens up about her own experience with osteopenia, fractures, bone density testing, and choosing a more proactive path through diet, exercise, and research. In this conversation, you’ll learn:The difference between osteopenia and osteoporosisWhat a bone density test can — and cannot — tell youWhy leafy gree

Have you ever felt an inner pull to do something more meaningful—but didn’t know where to start?On this episode of Smart Women Talk, we’re joined by Alexis Ramsey, CEO of We Care Foster Care, for a powerful conversation about purpose, service, and choosing impact over comfort.Alexis shares how her global career in education led her back home—and into nonprofit leadership—where she’s working to break the foster care–to–prison cycle and change lives through education, housing, and workforce development.If you’re in midlife and feeling the nudge to step into something bigger, this episode will meet you right where you are.You’ll hear:How a lifelong commitment to education led Alexis to foster care advocacyWhy midlife is often the moment purpose gets louderThe hard truths about nonprofit leadership (yes, it’s still a business)What it takes to break the foster care–to–prison pipelineWhy fear isn’t a stop sign—it’s part of the pathIf you’ve ever wanted your money to reflect what matters most to you, this episode is

What if your money could do more than sit in a retirement account?This month on Smart Women Talk, we’re joined by Marcia Dawood, global leader in angel investing and author of Doing Good While Doing Well, for a conversation that will completely change how you think about investing.Marcia breaks down what angel investing actually is (no finance degree required), why women are uniquely wired to be exceptional investors, and how anyone—yes, even with as little as $100—can invest in ideas, founders, and innovations they care about.You’ll learn:What angel investing really means (and how it’s different from Shark Tank)Why women founders receive only ~2% of venture capital—and how that can changeHow to start investing with your values, not just your walletCreative ways to invest using donor-advised funds, IRAs, and equity crowdfundingSimple, low-risk first steps to explore this world without feeling overwhelmedIf you’ve ever wanted your money to reflect what matters most to you, this episode is a must-listen.Marcia

Have you ever felt the pull to do something bold—but hesitated? In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with Alexis Nataf, founder of Konjo Cruising Indonesia, to explore what happens when you say yes to adventure. Alexis leads intimate dive and expedition cruises through Indonesia’s hidden waters—from Raja Ampat, the epicenter of global marine biodiversity, to remote islands few travelers will ever see. But this conversation goes far beyond travel. It’s about courage, transformation, and reclaiming your sense of wonder—at any age.You’ll learn:Why Indonesia is one of the most biodiverse places on EarthWhat life is really like aboard traditional wooden sailing vesselsHow immersive sea travel can spark deep personal transformationWhy women traveling solo (including over 60!) are thriving on these expeditionsHow facing fear—underwater and above—can change how you liveThis is an invitation to dive deeper—into the ocean and into yourself.

Have you ever dreamed of traveling to Africa, India, or Southeast Asia—but didn’t go because no one could join you? In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott interviews Susan Harvey, President of Worldwide Operations and Contracting for Overseas Adventure Travel, a women-founded travel company known for welcoming solo women travelers over 50. You’ll learn:Why solo travel doesn’t have to mean lonely or unsafeHow OAT designs trips specifically for solo womenWhat “day-in-the-life” cultural experiences really look likeWhy local guides and small groups make all the differenceThe destinations women love most—and the ones they’re nervous to try (but should!)Plus, Susan shares unforgettable stories—from joining a wedding procession in India to breaking bread with local families around the world.

What does it really mean to leave a lasting legacy—and how do you do it without losing your values, your family, or yourself along the way?In this powerful Smart Women Talk episode, Katana Abbott is joined by Phillip Fisher, Founder of Mission Throttle, and his daughter, Amanda Fisher, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and third-generation foundation trustee. Together, they share a deeply personal and practical conversation about wealth, purpose, and multi-generational impact. Phillip reflects on the legacy of his parents, Max M. and Marjorie Fisher, and the guiding philosophy that “all giving starts with your heart—and then you use your head.” He explains how families can align values across generations, move beyond transactional giving, and embrace impact investing as a tool for sustainable social change.Amanda brings a fresh, next-generation perspective—sharing how she balances career, philanthropy, and family while serving in leadership roles across multiple organizations. She offers candid insight into learn

Have you ever thought, “I wish I had recorded Grandma’s stories before she passed”—and realized you waited too long? In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott interviews Lauren Ferrara, former TV news anchor and founder of Why Wait Stories, about why our stories are one of the most meaningful legacies we can leave behind. Lauren shares how losing her dad—and filming his memorial—changed the entire course of her life and career. She explains why there’s no such thing as an “ordinary” life, how storytelling can be deeply healing, and why women’s stories in particular are often overlooked but absolutely essential. In this episode, you’ll discover:Why capturing stories can matter just as much as passing down money or heirloomsHow to start recording family stories using nothing more than your phoneCreative ways to use photos, old home movies, and even memorials as story-gathering momentsThe unexpected emotional and healing power of telling and hearing family storiesHow sharing stories can help the ne

How to Build a Remote Team Without Burnout with Jana FranklinSo many women start a business for freedom—only to find themselves working more than ever as the chief, cook, and bottle washer in their own company. In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott interviews Jana Franklin, serial entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of CEO Concierge, a premium virtual assistant agency with a 75+ person international team. Jana shares how she:Went from corporate fashion and multi-unit franchise owner (Jimmy John’s & Fantastic Sams) to leading a remote teamDiscovered the power of matching tasks to personality—“front stage” vs. “backstage” workBuilt systems, SOPs, and support so she could stop doing everything herselfHelps entrepreneurs reclaim entire days each week by delegating email, admin, hiring, licensing, and moreYou’ll learn practical steps to:Decide what to delegate (starting with a simple one-week exercise)Think differently about money, risk, and hiring supportUse virtual assistants to scale your b

Take Charge of Your Life with Dr. Arin ReevesWhy do so many women feel tired of being tired—even after eight hours of sleep?In this powerful episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with bestselling author and leadership consultant Dr. Arin Reeves to unpack the real reason women are burned out—and why “self-care” isn’t the solution.Discover how to identify and plug the “energy leaks” in your life, set boundaries that actually hold, and manage your energy (not just your time). Arin also breaks down the misunderstood stress gap between men and women in the workplace—and how women can reclaim their power without guilt or exhaustion.Topics include:Why self-care can sometimes add stressThe “canoe with holes” metaphor for burnout How to identify what’s draining vs. energizing youThe three kinds of energy: physical, cognitive, and emotionalPractical steps to delete, delegate, and resetLearn more about Arin and her latest book In Charge: The Energy Management Guide for Badass Women Who Are Tired of B

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. If you or someone you love is navigating a diagnosis, this conversation is for you. Host Katana Abbott sits down with Dr. Mensa, an expert in integrative oncology, to explore how nutrition, lifestyle, mind–body practices, and smart testing can help patients thrive during treatment—not just get through it. Katana also shares her personal journey with early-stage breast cancer, the choices she made (including cryoablation), and how having a coordinated care “quarterback” changed everything. Together they demystify naturopathic/integrative care—what it is, how it complements surgery/chemo/radiation, and practical steps women can start today. You’ll learn:What integrative oncology is—and how it supports conventional treatmentEvidence-informed nutrition basics (think: “rainbow plate,” anti-inflammatory herbs, smart sugar strategy)Why stress, sleep, and mindset matter—and easy ways to startWhich labs and hormone markers can inform a more personalized planPost-treatment tips

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re spotlighting a critical—but often overlooked—piece of the journey: financial toxicity. Katana welcomes Molly MacDonald, co-founder & CEO of The Pink Fund and Editor-in-Chief of Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine.After her own diagnosis upended her livelihood, Molly built a national nonprofit that has paid nearly $11 million in non-medical bills for patients in active treatment—housing, transportation, utilities, and insurance—so they can stay on therapy and focus on healing.We also explore the magazine’s mission to educate, inspire, and deliver hope; the SurThrivor™ mindset; and community-powered fundraising like Dancing with the Survivors. You’ll learn:What “financial toxicity” looks like—and practical ways to prevent treatment disruptionHow The Pink Fund’s 90-day “financial bridge” works (what’s covered & who qualifies)Why education and mindset (via Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine) are essential to survivorshipResources & links:The Pink Fund (appl

What if AI could give you back 30 hours a week—without sacrificing your voice or your brand? In this episode, Smart Women Talk host, Katana Abbott, sits down with marketing strategist and AI expert Kendra Corman to unpack how she went from 14-hour days to building a smarter, lighter business with AI as her strategic partner. You’ll learn:How to train AI to write in your authentic voice (Kendra’s “Voice Paragraph Method”).Set guardrails so AI challenges your thinking instead of just agreeing.Start small with high-impact workflows you repeat all the time.We also cover practical tips on organizing chats and memories, sanity-saving prompts, and why kindness—even to your AI—pays off. You’ll hear:The Voice Paragraph Method for brand-true writing.How to make AI your strategic partner (not just a content machine).Starter prompts & projects that save hours right away.Smart ways to keep your AI projects, folders, and “memories” organized.Kendra Corman is a marketing strategist, AI expert, and author who went from w

What if working less is the key to more freedom, impact, and income?Dr. Nona Djavid—mindset mentor and author of Elevate Your Life—went from burnout to a seven-figure business while working just one week a month.In this inspiring conversation, we unpack her four-step “quantum leap” framework, the power of an unreasonable vision, and why success takes both mechanics (systems, strategy) and energetics (identity, beliefs, emotional state).We also talk self-care that goes beyond massages—real, moment-to-moment choices that protect your health, relationships, and joy. If you’re craving ease, abundance, and clear next steps, this one’s for you.Dr. Nona Djavid is a mindset mentor, author, and founder of the eLIVate Club and The One Week/Month Lifestyle. She helps high-performing women unlock their next level by combining neuroscience, energetics, and business strategy. A former chiropractor turned spiritual entrepreneur, Dr. Nona teaches clients how to quantum leap their impact and income without hustling harder. Sh

Do you feel like you’re constantly trying to control every aspect of your life—only to end up exhausted, anxious, or stuck?In this powerful interview, Katana Abbott talks with Kute Blackson, transformational speaker and bestselling author of "You Are the One" and "The Magic of Surrender."Kute shares deeply moving insights from his personal journey and his mother’s remarkable grace during her battle with cancer. You’ll learn how surrendering to life’s flow can bring more peace, clarity, and abundance than you ever imagined. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why surrender is not giving up—but letting go of what no longer serves you.How surrender can unlock more magic, miracles, and alignment in your life.The three main reasons your goals may not be manifesting (and how to shift them).Learn more about Kute Blackson: www.kuteblackson.comFree course – 8 Levels of Gratitude: www.8levelsofgratitude.comFree Manifestation Masterclass: www.manifestationmasterclassonline.com#SmartWomenTalk #KuteBlackson #MagicOfSurrende

Heal from Within with Dr. Shannon SouthIn this powerful episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with Dr. Shannon South — also known as The Joy Doctor — to explore how you can tap into your own “inner counselor” to heal from trauma, release limiting patterns, and step into lasting joy and abundance.Dr. Shannon shares her personal journey from anxiety and depression to profound healing, along with the transformative process she now teaches to clients and practitioners worldwide. Whether you’re facing emotional pain, seeking deeper spiritual connection, or ready to break free from old survival patterns, this conversation will inspire you to embrace the healing power within.Dr. Shannon D. South, known as the “Joy Doctor,” is an award-winning therapist, bestselling author, and inspirational speaker with over 25 years of experience in spiritual psychology and trauma healing. Following a personal awakening in 1994 that healed her anxiety and depression, she’s dedicated her life to helping others connect

In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with the amazing Dr. Anna Cabeca for a powerful discussion on what it really means to live vibrantly after menopause.Dr. Anna shares why balancing hormones isn’t just about taking hormones—and how food, mindset, and lifestyle play an even bigger role. From her Keto-Green® lifestyle tips to natural approaches to sexual wellness, Dr. Anna offers a refreshing perspective that puts women back in control of their health and happiness.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to use food to rebalance hormones and support weight loss.Why sexual health still matters (and how to improve it naturally).What inflammation, stress, and insulin resistance have to do with menopause.Why Dr. Anna says "it takes more than hormones to fix your hormones."You’ll leave this episode feeling informed, inspired, and ready to thrive—no matter your age.Learn more about Dr. Anna: https://dranna.comDisclaimer:The information shared in this episode is for educational and information

Is midlife the beginning of the end—or the start of something powerful?In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott welcomes Pam DeRose and Julie Fidel, co-authors of Midlife Upgrade: A Girlfriend’s Guide to Finding Power in the Pause. Together, they challenge outdated beliefs about menopause, hormones, sex, and self-worth—and reveal why this season of life can be a profound opportunity for renewal. You’ll learn how to stop accepting vague answers from providers, ask the questions that matter, and find strength in sisterhood. Whether you're navigating hot flashes, brain fog, or just craving deeper connection, this conversation offers guidance, community, and real talk.Julie Fedeli is a devoted mother and passionate advocate for women’s well-being. As an inspirational entrepreneur, mentor, certified health and longevity coach, speaker, and author, Julie provides one-on-one consulting for women seeking holistic support through the complexities of midlife. Whether leading large-scale women's events or crea